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Navigate: FAQ Home Page > Emotional Issues > Do I have anorexia?
Posted on: 02/01/2004
Question
Hi. i have a history of depression, anxiety, and self harm. I'm on antidepressants. Apart from that my health is usually pretty good. Except I have lost a lot of weight i have a BMI of 17. I have no appetite and don't want to eat. I know i'm thin... so that cuts out the body image thing.. does that mean i wouldn't have anorexia? I told the doctor i fainted the other day and he didn't seem too concerned..
Answer
Greetings, It sounds like you have been having a bit of a difficult time. As you probably know not being hungry nor enjoying food is often a symptom to both depression and anxiety. As you indicate, anorexia is more than just being underweight. Generally there is considerable focus on controlling how you look and what you eat. However a BMI of 17 is pretty low and fainting is of concern also. If you don't have a plan or don't seem to be able to work out a plan with your doctor regarding healthy eating and why you fainted then you are not getting what you need to get better. Perhaps you could be referred to a dietician or a nurse. If you have a therapist for your depression perhaps he or she could speak to your doctor. Perhaps you and your family , counselor or friends should decide if this is the right doctor for you. Doctor and patient need to be working on health problems as a team and it sound like this isn't happening for you. Don't give up, asking for help as you have done with this email, is a mature and healthy thing to do!
Submitted on 10/03/03 at 01:12:03